It was a pleasure to have the Mrs Amanda Elliott as our guest speaker today.
Amanda rewrote the history books when she assumed office as the first female chairman of the VRC in February 2017.
And what a busy time to assume office with the new grandstand under construction. Amanda reported that the stand is due to be completed early August. Its running on time and on budget.
What a heritage belongs to Flemington Racecourse, from the time of the first Melbourne Cup in 1861, won of course by Archer. And its not just famous names of the equine champions, but Flemington reflects our history as described in the photos and the stories of the Melbourne Cup and the spring carnival, whether if be in the depressions of 1930 ( the spirits of the people being lifted by the great feats of Phar Lap) or the 1880s and of course two world wars.
But now the Melbourne Cup is truly a great international event of racing, fashion, hospitality and tourism.
After hearing Amanda’s address today we can be confident that not only will the traditions be preserved but that the VRC and Flemington will stay ahead of the world as a racing club and in providing services and facilities at the cutting edge.